THE inquest into the death of a 19-year-old girl whose body was found in woodland in Over Hulton was opened yesterday.

Alicia Sidebotham had a “history of depression and self harm” the inquest was told.

The teenager, who was born in Billinge and lived in Hatton Avenue, Atherton, had been working as a sales assistant prior to her death, the assistant coroner Rachel Galloway was told.

The police coroners officer confirmed her body had been found hanging in a “secluded area” by a member of the public.

The inquest was opened at 1.45pm yesterday at the coroners court in Paderborn House in Bolton town centre.

Miss Sidebotham was found on Monday and a police investigation was launched into her death. Ms Galloway was told there were “no suspicious circumstances” surrounding Miss Sidebotham’s death and no evidence of third party involvement.

Following a post mortem examination by Dr Naveen Sharma the provisional cause of death has been listed as suspension by a ligature.

In preparation for the inquest hearing Ms Galloway has requested information from the police, Miss Sidebotham’s GP and the mental health services. The inquest will also hear a toxicology report.

The inquest has been adjourned until Monday, April 15 at 10am.

Police were called to the area off Broadway at 8.15am on Monday and North West Ambulance Service confirmed they had also sent an ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a helicopter to the area.

Tributes poured in the next day.

Dionne Spencer met Ms Sidebotham two years ago and the pair became best friends.

Ms Spencer said: “She was witty and beautiful and funny and so intellectual and without her the world feels duller.”